The wedding unity candle ceremony is perhaps
one of the most cherished memories you will have of a wedding.

First, let's begin by saying that there is
really no right or wrong way to conduct the ceremony. Contrary to
what people may tell you, the ceremony is meant to be symbolic of the love
of two joined as one. That being said, people are unique, so go
ahead and do what you like!

Here are the "basics" that you
should know about the most common methods used during the candle lighting
ceremony.

There are usually three candles in a unity
candle set (although,
as you read, you'll see that more can be used). The center candle is
usually the thicker and presented as the taller (either by height of the
candle or by the stand that it is on). On each side (left and right)
of this center candle are two "standard" taper candles.
Traditionally, these two candles represent the love of the bride, and the
groom. The center candle represents the single love that is created
by the unity of the bride and groom. The center candle is usually
lit by using the flame from each of the two side candles. Ok, now
you've got the unity candle basics. So let's go over it step by step.

(1) First, you'll want to determine if
white or off white is the color you wish to use.
(2) Next choose a center candle from any of these areas: 1|2|3
(3) Then find a pair of side candles from any of these areas: 1|2|3
(4) Now you're going to need some holders for both the side candles and
the center candle. Take a look here.
(5) Want to give it a little extra touch? Take a look at these
flower rings.

Ok, now you've got just about everything
you need for a perfect unity candle set. Once you put the side candles in their holders (Do the
candles fit well in the holders? If the candles are slightly too
small, take a look at the "Stick Wax" that can be found here.) and the center candle on the holder (add your
flower rings if you decided to use them). Ok, you're all set up.

Now, about the actual unity candle ceremony. As
mentioned earlier, there are many different ways to conduct the ceremony,
here is one of the most common. First, you can get two simple flower
tapers from here, and use them to take the light (flame) from one of the
candles that should already be burning during the ceremony. At this
time these flower tapers will be used not by the bride and groom, but by
the parents (or other significant person) of the bride and groom to each
light their "side" of the unity candle set. (For example, the
bride's parents will take the flame from another candle burning during the
ceremony (using the flower taper to 'transport' the flame) and light one
of the two side candles, the groom's parents will do the same on their
side.) The two flower tapers will then be extinguished (either
by gently blowing or using a snuffer). They will be placed down, one
along the side of each side candle, to be later used by the bride and
groom. When the time comes for the bride and groom to conduct the
unity candle ceremony, the bride and groom will each pick up the flower taper on
their side, and take the flame from their side candle and light the center
candle. The flower tapers are once again extinguished as indicated
above.
(Note: You can eliminate the use of flower tapers and simply use the side
candles to transfer the light (flame) from candle to candle. Please
use extreme care if you chose to use this method as the side candles will
be very prone to dripping when this method is used (since the candles will
not remain vertical).)

At this time, the unity candle ceremony is
complete. It is traditional to leave the side candles burning at the
same time. Please be sure and make arrangements with someone to
remove your unity candle set for you and place it someplace safe (not in
the trunk of car in a hot climate!). It makes a wonderful way to
remember that special day!